Sure, last night’s inductions of [lastfm link_type=”artist_info”]Neil Diamond[/lastfm], Darlene LoveandAlice Coopercorrect three of the more notable omissions from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. However, there’s still a ton more to do with many KLUV classic hit artists.

A number of standout artists, writers and producers of the ’60s and ’70s have yet to receive one of rock’s highest career honors. Some of the top artists still waiting for the call from the Hall include The Doobie Brothers, Three Dog Night,Tommy James and the ShondellsandBlood, Sweat and Tears.

Chicago, with a resume boasting 20 Top 10 hits, is the most glaring omission. The jazz-rock innovators may be the victims of their increasing emphasis on pop ballads over innovation during the late ’70s and ’80s.

The Doobies turned away from country rock and embraced a more soulful — and commercially successful — sound once Michael McDonald became their frontman.

Tommy James and the Shondells are blamed by some for being too “bubblegum,” yet “Mony, Mony” ranks with “Louie, Louie” and “Shout” among the most enduringly popular party songs. And his “Crystal Blue Persuasion” and “Crimson and Clover” were certainly closer to the cutting edge than the mainstream in their time, with some high-tech and electronic effects that were as edgy as anyone’s in the late ’60s. And the upcoming movie based on Tommy’s hot-selling autobiography Me, the Mob and the Music is certain to keep his career in the spotlight.

Though they don’t have quite as big a following as Chicago or the Doobies, The Guess Who were the first important Canadian act to win a following in the U.S. and Europe. “American Woman,” their biggest U.S. single, has been covered by several important artists the last two decades.

A case can be made for The Monkees — and their innovative use of video and comedy to back their music. Brian Wilson is among those said to support the made-for-TV band’s cause.

Two icons of rock’s first decade, Paul Anka and Connie Francis, have also been left behind. Their impact on the pre-Beatles era seems to have been minimized by the distance of time, and in Anka’s case, by his “teen idol” status. Francis is the first lady of rock’s first decade. 15 Top 10 hits and 26 Ed Sullivan Show appearances say a lot. She certainly paved the way for Diana Ross and Madonna.

Other acts with huge historical impact that deserve consideration:

Hall and Oates are the biggest-selling duo of all time and one of the top hit-makers from the mid-’70s through the mid-’80s and are already inductees of the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

Chubby Checker‘s “The Twist” remains the most important and successful dance record of all time. And in the years between Buddy Holly’s death and the Beatles arrival, he was a constant chart presence.

The Moody Blues and ELOinfused rock with classical influences and changed the sound of music in the ’70s.

America is one of few self-contained folk-influenced harmony bands of the ’70s not to be honored.

Tom Jones‘ baritone remains strong after four decades of stardom, and he remains both a concert mainstay and a popular recording artist in Britain.

Sonny and Cher have long been overlooked. Forget his comic image – Sonny Bono was one of rock’s brightest minds. He’s the writer-producer who penned their material and crafted their image. She is the most enduring female vocalist of the rock era. Perhaps Bono’s later-in-life career as a right-wing politician is being held against him.

LindaRonstadt was the most popular female solo artist of the ’70s. Since then, she has explored and embraced other musical styles.

Carly Simon rivaled Ronstadt as the First Lady of Rock during the ’70s. And unlike Linda, Carly wrote much of her own material, especially the iconic “You’re So Vain.”

Heartwas the first prominent rock band led by women. Their resume is full of iconic songs, such as “Magic Man,” “Crazy on You,” “Barracuda” and “Straight On.” Are they, like Chicago, being blamed for adding power-ballads to their repertoire in the ’80s?

The Zombies who made their mark in the ’60s with “She’s Not There,” “Tell Her No” and “Time of the Season” have resumed their place among the most respected tour bands from that era.

With most of the prominent Brill Building writing teams — such as Carole King and Gerry Goffin, Jeff Barry and Ellie Greenwich,andBarry Mann and Cynthia Weil — having being inducted, the absence of the prolific Burt Bacharach and Hal Davidbecomes more glaring.

I’m just saying. ~JZ.

Here’s just one sample of overlooked greatness, from CHICAGO, live in Japan from 1984!